The Strategic Dialogue between the European Commission and the automotive industry resumed, with calls to review CO2 emission targets and establish a more flexible decarbonisation system. The industry specifically seeks a review of the 2035 ban on endothermic engines and the option to continue offering hybrid engines and low-carbon fuels.

Stellantis CEO Antonio Filosa told the Kepler Cheuvreux Autumn Conference in Paris that EU emission targets are frankly unachievable and linked the decline of the European car market, losing three million registrations in under five years, to rigid regulations. He stressed that revising targets and introducing flexibility is urgent.

The third stage of the Strategic Dialogue, scheduled for 12 September, follows earlier discussions that began in January. President Ursula von der Leyen emphasized the sector’s importance to Europe’s economy and indicated openness to industry proposals, including flexible emission monitoring periods, technology neutrality, and support for affordable city car production.

A Roland Berger study commissioned by Clepa warns European suppliers face higher costs and risks losing up to 350,000 jobs by 2030, with up to 23% of added value potentially at stake.